Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Riverina Michael McCormack
It has been a tough few years and all Central West residents have been affected in some way.
Whether it be our primary producers recovering from the effects of drought, to floods and storms threatening homes and farmland and, of course, the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all faced significant adversity and, in a show of typical regional Australian community spirit, we have stood tall to be our best selves against these challenges.
Australia can be proud that it is one of the most vaccinated countries when it comes to COVID-19. The fact remains, despite new variants, vaccination remains our best defence against this virus.
The good news is the scientific data suggests Omicron is less severe than previous variants, but it is much more transmissible, which is why we need to continue doing the right things to keep safe the more vulnerable in our community – practising social distancing, wearing masks when appropriate and getting the COVID-19 jab.
Whether you have rolled up your sleeve twice or you have become eligible recently, such as those in the five to 11-year-old age category, your efforts to continue to protect your community through getting the booster or getting your first jab are to be commended – you are saving lives and protecting livelihoods in your local community. Thank you.
We all want to get back as quickly as we can to the way our lifestyles were before the pandemic – the vaccine is helping us do just that.
You can go to www.health.gov.au to find the nearest available COVID-19 vaccine clinic and to book your vaccination.
By Michael McCormack
Member for Riverina